Family: Malpighiaceae
Compound: Cot gra
Synonyms: Janusia gracilis
Geographic Origin: SW US, N Mexico
Characteristics: A tangled vining plant, climbing up trees, shrubs, cacti or itself. Leaves are linear
or lanceolate, with appressed hairs and oppositely arranged on the stem. Flowers are small,
yellow, with 5 petals, each with a very narrow base, and a wide, round tip. Fruits are divided
into 3, winged pods which break off and catch the wind as they fall.
Natural History: Common on bajadas and rocky slopes in desert scrub habitat between 304-
1524m (1000-5000ft). Blooms spring to fall.
Cultivation Notes: Occasionally available at local nurseries, it makes a great addition to native
gardens and landscapes. Its delicate and beautiful flowers add interest to the landscape and
support pollinators. Little cultivation information is available online. Try soaking seeds for 12-24
hours before placing them on the soil’s surface and keeping moist.
For plant propagation information, click here
Ethnobotany:
Citations:
Southwest Desert Flora
https://southwestdesertflora.com/WebsiteFolders/All_Species/Malpighiace…